COMMUNITY FORUM

Roof replacement

We bought our first house back in April. The house was built in 1989. We have two large white oak trees on the front and back corners of the house. Per our inspector, these trees have worn on the roof (two story house w/ roofed porch) and he recommended that we get them topped. The room also has those black streak stains on the roof over the bonus room that is located over the garage. Three questions:

1) What is the black streaking and how damaging is it to the house?

2) Assuming the roof is 15 year shingles - how soon should we get it replaced?

3) Would you all recommend that we get the trees topped. I think we need to but hate to because they are so beautiful (about 40 feet high).

Thanks!

BV003797

02:40PM | 04/04/14

Congratulations on your new home! If you have tree limbs touching the roof they need to be trimmed back. The lowest shingle warranty out there is a 20 yr on three tab roofing systems so unless you have rolled roofing then that is most likely the material on your roof. I have done several historic homes and usually when I get to the roof someone along the way has done something to the existing structure of roof deck causing major issues. I would definitely look to replace your roof if it's in your budget your roof protects all of your belonging! Most people don't pay attention to their roof until they see shingles in the yard or water stains on their ceiling. Since your roof is exposed to the harshest elements of rain, wind, and uv it should be inspected and repaired if necessary on a yearly basis. Don't take for a second think that if it's not broke don't fix it. You will end up with double expenses. Interior and exterior repairs. Find a local company that has been in business for at least five years make sure the are properly insured, and licensed if required in your state or county. Have them do a roof assessment. You may pay $200 to $300 for them to do so but this is not an estimate it's like a diagnostics fee. You are requesting a trained professional to evaluate your roof and their time is valuable as well.
Best of Luck!
Richard Jeziorski
Liberty Roofing & Siding Inc
http://www.schaumburgroofingcompany.com/
http://roofingillinois.com/